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RDU → JFK
Which side of the plane to sit from Raleigh Durham International Airport (Raleigh-durham) to John F Kennedy International Airport (New York)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side is superior for this northbound route as it typically provides a direct line of sight to the major metropolitan corridors of the Northeast, including a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline and the Hudson River during the descent into New York.
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Raleigh-Durham Skyline
A clear view of the Research Triangle Park and the growing downtown Raleigh area immediately after takeoff.
Capital Region
Depending on the flight path, you can often spot the Potomac River and the monuments of Washington D.C. to the west.
Philadelphia Landmarks
Catch a glimpse of the Schuylkill River and the dense urban grid of Center City Philadelphia.
Manhattan Skyline
The premier highlight; see the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and Central Park as you bank toward JFK.
MetLife Stadium
Look down at the massive sports complex in the New Jersey Meadowlands shortly before crossing the Hudson.
Choose the left side for the best chance to see the iconic New York City skyline. During evening flights, the city lights provide a spectacular show. Sit behind the wing for an unobstructed view of the ground during the final descent.
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Chesapeake Bay
An expansive view of the world's largest estuary, featuring the intricate network of islands and the Bay Bridge.
The Jersey Shore
Look out over the famous coastline, including the beaches of Atlantic City and the Long Beach Island area.
Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge
A majestic view of the bridge connecting Staten Island and Brooklyn as the plane enters the New York harbor area.
Coney Island
Spot the historic Wonder Wheel and the Riegelmann Boardwalk on the southern tip of Brooklyn during final approach.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid the glare of the sun. It offers beautiful coastal geography and a great look at the Brooklyn shoreline. Watch for the distinct curve of Sandy Hook and the shipping lanes entering New York Harbor.
Book Hotels in New YorkDistance: 687 km (427 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 9 min
Departure: RDU (35.877601623535156, -78.7874984741211)
Arrival: JFK (40.63980103, -73.77890015)
Route Type: Domestic
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